Dance couple take on the world stage

A BALLROOM and Latin dance couple will be flying the South African flag high as they compete in the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF) Latin American Championship on October 5.

Palesa Rabelemane and Siyanda Ndlela have been selected to represent the country at the prestigious competition.

Rabelemane and Ndlela have been dancing together since the beginning of the year.

Speaking to Echo, Rabelemane said they are excited and this is something big for them. She said they plan to leave five days prior to the competition so that they can get enough time to practice.

“This means a lot to us, especially as young, upcoming Latin dance coaches from Pietermaritz­burg. This is an opportunity of a lifetime and we hope that it will inspire other upcoming dancers and those who still want to start dancing.

“It shows that if you are passionate about something you can go anywhere. It might take a long time sometimes but, if you are patient, the opportunity will come to you at the right time,” she added.

She did, however, say they are worried about how are they are going to make it to the competition since they do not have any sponsors.

“We want to go there and represent our country and possibly win that competition. We are looking for any form of sponsorship for accommodation, food and other things. We are going to work very hard to make sure that we do not disappoint when we get to the competition,” she said.

Rabelemane said when she started dancing at the age of seven and never thought that one day she would represent her country in a dance competition.

“I did it as a hobby when I was growing up and never thought that it could be a career. But, with the lack of job opportunities, I started focusing more on it. I am now teaching children from different schools around PMB ballroom and Latin dance.

“As much as I am teaching children for now, I also want to encourage older people as well to come and join. Dancing is not only for young people, even old people can join as well.”

Rabelemane said her dream is to open a dance studio that will teach different dance styles.

If you would like to assist the dancers with their dream, call 061 003 6918 or send an e-mail to p.rabelemane@gmail.com